Cardiovascular Technician Schools

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a cardiovascular technician, several top schools and colleges in the United States offer specialized programs in this field. These programs focus on training students in various aspects of cardiovascular technology, preparing them for roles such as cardiovascular technologists, sonographers, and invasive cardiovascular specialists. Here's an overview of some of the leading schools offering cardiovascular technician programs:

1. Valencia Community College

Location: Orlando, Florida

Valencia Community College’s Cardiovascular Technology Program has been a cornerstone in training cardiovascular technologists since its establishment in 2002. The program offers an Associate in Science (AS) degree and is designed to prepare students to become Invasive Cardiovascular Specialists, also known as Cardiovascular Technologists (CVTs). This is a limited access program, meaning it has a specific number of spots available for students each year, and it is highly competitive.

The program is fully accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology (JRC-CVT) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Through a combination of classroom education and clinical training, students gain the skills necessary to work in the cardiovascular field, performing diagnostic and invasive procedures. Graduates of this program are eligible to take certification exams from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). Valencia Community College is known for its excellent track record in preparing students for the certification exams and for providing quality healthcare education.

2. Orange Coast College

Location: Costa Mesa, California

Orange Coast College offers a comprehensive Cardiovascular Technology Program, which provides essential training in both non-invasive and invasive cardiovascular technology. Students in this program receive the necessary classroom instruction and clinical experiences to qualify as treadmill technologists, electrodiagnostic technicians, and cardiac and vascular sonographers. Orange Coast College is highly regarded in the community for its high success rates in transferring students to the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems, making it a good option for students seeking further academic advancement.

The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, which is vital for a career in cardiovascular technology. Graduates are well-prepared to take certification exams and begin careers as cardiovascular technicians in various healthcare settings. This program is an excellent choice for those who want to pursue a career in the rapidly growing field of cardiovascular health.

3. Hudson Valley Community College

Location: Troy, New York

Hudson Valley Community College offers a specialized Invasive Cardiovascular Technology Certificate designed for students who wish to pursue careers as cardiovascular technicians. This certificate program provides students with hands-on clinical training in the invasive aspects of cardiovascular care, including cardiac catheterization, angioplasty, and electrophysiology. Upon completing the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the national registry exam administered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). The program also prepares students for any additional exams that may be required, such as the basic science exam.

The college's approach to cardiovascular training emphasizes real-world experience, allowing students to work alongside experienced professionals in clinical settings. Hudson Valley’s program is designed for those who are looking to specialize in the invasive aspect of cardiovascular technology, which often requires additional technical skills and knowledge in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

4. Central Piedmont Community College

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) offers a nationally accredited Cardiovascular Technology Program with concentrations in both Invasive and Noninvasive cardiology. This program is fully accredited by CAAHEP, ensuring that it meets the highest educational standards for training cardiovascular technologists. The curriculum at CPCC provides students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills related to echocardiography, vascular sonography, and electrophysiology.

CPCC’s program is structured to include both classroom learning and extensive clinical experience, which prepares students for certification exams from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). The program’s focus on both invasive and noninvasive cardiology ensures that students are well-equipped for a range of roles in the cardiovascular field. Graduates are highly sought after by hospitals and private practices across the region due to the program’s strong reputation.

5. Grossmont College

Location: El Cajon, California

Grossmont College offers a Cardiovascular Technology (CVT) Program that is nationally accredited by CAAHEP. The program includes both invasive and noninvasive cardiovascular technology concentrations and prepares students for certification exams from Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) and the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS).

The Grossmont College Cardiovascular Technology program is well-regarded for its excellent clinical training opportunities and strong partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities. Students gain experience in various diagnostic technologies, including echocardiography, vascular sonography, and electrophysiology, which allows them to work in diverse areas of cardiovascular care. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers as cardiovascular technologists, sonographers, and specialists in both hospital and outpatient settings.

6. Edison State College

Location: Fort Myers, Florida

Edison State College’s Cardiovascular Technology Program offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate in Science Degree in Cardiovascular Technology. The program is fully accredited for invasive cardiology by CAAHEP, and it prepares students for the national registry examination offered by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Upon successful completion of the program, graduates receive the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) credential, which is highly respected in the cardiovascular industry.

The program’s curriculum includes a strong focus on cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology, and other invasive cardiovascular procedures. Students also gain essential training in diagnostic imaging and noninvasive cardiology. The program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and other healthcare settings that specialize in cardiovascular care.

Conclusion

There are many excellent Cardiovascular Technology Programs available in the U.S., providing students with the training and certification necessary to pursue careers in this growing field. Programs at Valencia Community College, Orange Coast College, Hudson Valley Community College, Central Piedmont Community College, Grossmont College, and Edison State College all offer comprehensive curricula, clinical experiences, and accreditation through reputable agencies such as CAAHEP and CCI. Graduates from these programs are well-prepared to enter the workforce as cardiovascular technologists, sonographers, or invasive specialists, equipped with the skills and credentials to excel in this crucial healthcare sector.